Triathlon - shin splints

i like to run, its a nice easy way to get some exercise in if i dont feel like going out on the bike. I prefer trail running, its more enjoyable and much easier on my shins, but im not always able to.

if i run for a few days straight, i start to develop shin splints, this is usually from running on pavement. though enough running on any surface gives me shin splints.

i was wondering if there was any advice out there as to how to prevent them. how big of a deal do shoes make? are there stretches or something that will help?

thanks

Aaron

I was having this problem also and was told to stretch, stretch and stretch some more. It worked. You mentioned shoes; yes, they can make a difference if they have high mileage on them. So far as stretching; do a calf stretch with your heel on the ground and point your toe up. You will feel the stretch in both the calf and the muscle over the shin. For relief after a run ice the shin down and use advil alieve.

run more

Stretch, stretch stretch.
And shoes are a huge deal.

Try running every other day.

ok...ill have to try some EXTRA stretching and try and run more...ill give it a shot, thanks

Don't forget to rest every couple of days!!! I'd suggest you either back off of speed/distance right now until you're feeling some relief.
A good stretch for me is while standing raise go up on your toes (like you're reaching for the top shelf). Go up, hold till 10, repeat a couple of times. It's one of the only stretches I found that works that area of the leg.
--Sax

along with what saxman said, walk on your toes for about 5 yards and then walk on your heels, and continue to alternate for about 50 yards...works wonders for me